No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait
A delicious layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker base, creamy cheesecake filling, and a bright cherry topping, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1.5 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs You can use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 7 tablespoons butter (melted)
For the cheesecake filling
- 1 package cream cheese, softened (8 ounces) Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for best texture.
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
- ⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice Freshly squeezed is best for flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 ounces) You can substitute with other fruit fillings or fresh fruits.
Instructions
Preparation of Crust
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter; set aside.
- Press a small amount together between your fingers — it should hold loosely. If it’s too dry, add another 1/2 teaspoon of melted butter.
Preparation of Cheesecake Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth.
- Beat in the sweetened condensed milk until combined, starting on low to avoid splattering.
- Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and vanilla extract and stir well until velvety and pourable.
Layering
- Set 6 plastic, 9 ounce punch cups on the counter or a cookie sheet.
- Scoop 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture into the bottom of each cup and press down lightly.
- Add 3 tablespoons of the cheesecake mixture to each cup and spread out evenly.
- Evenly distribute half of the cherry pie filling between the 6 cups.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture over the cherry layer.
- Divide the remaining cheesecake mixture between the 6 cups and smooth the top.
- Divide the reserved cherry pie filling evenly between the cups and sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs.
- Serve immediately or chill for up to 24 hours before serving.
Notes
These parfaits are best served chilled, and you can easily modify the filling with different pie fillings or fresh fruits. For an elegant presentation, use clear glasses to showcase the layers.